Bennett on Schenectady police officer’s DWI arrest

Here is the statement the Schenectady Police Department issued a short time ago about Officer Michael R. Brown’s arrest:

“At approximately 10:30 PM on March 1, 2009 Patrolman Michael R. Brown was involved in a personal injury automobile accident in the Town of Colonie at Route 9 and Osborne Road.He has been charged with driving while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident by the Colonie Police Department. The Schenectady Police Department of Professional Standards has initiated an internal investigation of the accident.

Commissioner Wayne E. Bennett has issued the following statement:

“The majority of the Schenectady Police Officers conduct themselves in compliance with all laws as well as department rules and regulations.Regrettably, a few officers continue to refuse to abide by these mandates.In such cases, where evidence corroborates non-compliance, I will utilize my authority as disciplinary officer to assess penalties, including termination where appropriate, to put an end to this behavior and further criticism of the Schenectady Police Department.The case of Patrolman Michael R. Brown will be handled consistent with this policy.”

Effectively immediately, Patrolman Michael R. Brown is suspended for a period of 30 days without pay.’